Prevention

National Burn Awareness Week

National Burn Awareness Week is an important annual observance dedicated to educating the public about burn prevention and safety.
This week serves as a crucial reminder of the devastating effects of burns, which can occur in various settings, from homes to workplaces. Through community events, educational programs, and outreach initiatives, organizations aim to raise awareness about the causes of burns, such as scalding liquids, open flames, and electrical hazards. By sharing prevention strategies and first aid tips, Burn Awareness Week seeks to empower individuals and families to take proactive measures to protect themselves and others, ultimately reducing the number of burn injuries and promoting safer environments for everyone.  The American Burn Association sponsors the event, which takes place annually in February. The Firefighters Burn Institute is proud to participate in raising awareness about burn prevention and safety.

National Burn Awareness Week 2025 will be held during February 2-8, 2025.

Common Burn Types and Information Sheets

Contact Burns

Contact burns occur when skin comes into direct contact with a hot object, surface, or substance, leading to injury. Common sources include heated metal, hot appliances, and scalding liquids. These burns can vary in severity, from mild redness to deep tissue damage, depending on the temperature and duration of contact. Immediate treatment is crucial; cooling the burn with running water and covering it with a clean, dry cloth can help reduce pain and prevent infection. Understanding the risks and practicing safety around hot items can significantly lower the chances of experiencing contact burns.

Read More about Contact Burns

Non-Fire Cooking Burns

Non-fire cooking burns occur when individuals are injured by hot surfaces, splattering oil, or steam during food preparation. Common culprits include hot pots, pans, and ovens, as well as cooking appliances like microwaves and deep fryers. These burns can happen quickly and often result in painful injuries that require immediate attention. To minimize the risk, it’s important to use potholders, keep handles turned inward on the stove, and be cautious when working with hot oils or steam. By implementing simple safety practices in the kitchen, individuals can significantly reduce the likelihood of non-fire cooking burns and ensure a safer cooking environment.

Read More about Non-Fire Cooking Burns

Pediatric Scalds

Pediatric scalds are a significant concern, as young children are particularly vulnerable to burn injuries from hot liquids. Common sources include hot water, soups, and beverages, which can cause severe burns in seconds. Due to their delicate skin, children can suffer more extensive damage than adults from similar exposures. Preventative measures, such as setting water heater temperatures to a safe level, using back burners when cooking, and keeping hot liquids out of reach, are essential in reducing the risk. Educating caregivers about scald prevention can help create a safer environment for children and significantly lower the incidence of these painful injuries.

Read More about Pediatric Scalds